AN RAF doctor who works alongside the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) has helped set a new Guinness World Record as part of a team taking on one of the world’s toughest rowing challenges.
Felix Wood, an RAF emergency medicine doctor and Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance clinician, was part of Team ROWMADS, which rowed more than 2,000 miles around the coastline of Great Britain as part of the 2026 GB Row Challenge.
The five-person crew set off from Tower Bridge on June 14 and completed the non-stop, unsupported challenge in 32 days, 30 minutes and 58 seconds, becoming the fastest five-person crew to row around Great Britain.
Throughout the challenge, Felix has been fundraising for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, a charity close to his heart following his time working alongside the team.
“My personal highlight was a close encounter with an orca in the far north of Scotland and the low point has to be our soaking wet cabin during a storm in the Irish Sea,” he said.
“Throughout, the thought that we were raising money for worthwhile causes close to each of our hearts kept us pushing on through the tough times.
“Just like at DSAA we were only able to complete the mission due to strong teamwork and pulling together to a common goal.
“Knowing that my DSAA colleagues were following our progress on the GPS tracker also provided a little extra motivation.”
Alongside the physical and mental demands of the row, the challenge has an important scientific purpose, with Team ROWMADS collecting data on water temperature, water quality and pollution, while supporting research into physiological adaptation, sleep and small-team dynamics.
“After 32 days at sea, we were the third fastest crew ever to row round Great Britain unsupported and we’ve also taken home a Guinness world record for the fastest five person crew,” Felix went on.
“In addition, we collected over 100 samples to test for microplastics and environmental DNA as well as 750 hours of hydrophone recordings to be analysed for marine mammals.
“We’ve also collected blood tests, saliva samples, interviews and performed exercise testing and bone scans to see the effect this trip has had on our bodies and minds.
Charlotte Humber, supporter engagement officer at DSAA, added: “We are so proud of Felix and Team ROWMADS for completing such a demanding challenge and setting a new world record in the process.
“It means a great deal that Felix has chosen to support Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance in this way, and we’re so grateful to everyone who has donated so far.
“Their incredible commitment has helped shine a spotlight on the vital work we do, and we hope their achievement will inspire even more people to support our lifesaving service.”
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